The term net neutrality reflects the notion of a level playing field on the Internet, i.e., that powerful global platform for speech and expression. The group SaveTheInternet.com frames net neutrality as follows:

Net neutrality means no discrimination. Net neutrality prevents Internet providers from blocking, speeding up or slowing down Web content based on its source, ownership or destination….The free and open Internet brings with it the revolutionary possibility that any Internet site could have the reach of a TV or radio station. The loss of net neutrality would end this unparalleled opportunity for freedom of expression.

As the lead plaintiff in a winning class action case against an Internet service provider that intentionally slowed peer-to-peer (P2P) communication, I can talk reality to those who only imagine draconian consequences of deregulating the Internet.

Yet, not only are Republicans blocking regulations to protect the Internet from a corporate takeover, they’re actually calling net neutrality a government takeover. Will the spin and fear mongering never cease? Thinking about it logically, if laws blocking the guarantee of a free and open Internet are enacted we will see more government intervention, not less. (There’s no doubt a pattern here considering the Republicans’ multitudinous attempts at “right-wing radical social engineering,” as called out by their own Newt Gingrich.)

Net neutrality is the status quo. It’s the way the Internet operates right now: free and open. And it’s up to us to make sure it stays that way. Stand up for truth, logic, and the free and open Internet by researching the matter yourself and then helping to spread the truth about imminent threats to net neutrality.